The Pekoe Trail Stage 05: Pundaluoya to Watagoda – A Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Tea Country
Kumbaloluwa, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka – Stage 05 of the Pekoe Trail offers a moderate 8.4-mile (14.31 km) point-to-point hike through the heart of Sri Lanka’s stunning tea country. With an elevation gain of 2,214 feet (780m), this stage is estimated to take around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete, offering adventurers a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and local culture of the region. The trail is generally considered moderately challenging. The best times to visit this trail are February through March.
Trail Highlights
- Varied Terrain: The trail features a mix of terrains, from village roads and paddy fields to tea estate paths, offering a diverse hiking experience.
- Scenic Views: Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of waterfalls, the Kotmale River Gorge, and the Dimbula Hills, one of the earliest and most historically significant tea-growing regions. A particularly noteworthy sight is the “Great Wall,” a dramatic rock and forest formation reminiscent of Game of Thrones.
- Cultural Immersion: The route passes through villages, providing opportunities for interaction with locals and a glimpse into their daily lives. Reviews mention friendly encounters with children and a warm welcome from the community.
- Points of Interest: River crossings, Wewahena bridge, waterfalls, paddy fields, the great wall, Medakumbura Estate, views of the Dimbula Valley, Watagoda train station and Watagoda Town.
Trail Description
The stage begins at the intersection of a road leading to a hydro project and the Tawalanthenna to Thalawakele road, near a recognizable temple. From there, the trail descends sharply towards a river crossing, winding through villages and paddy fields before leveling out on the main road near Wewahena.
The path then ascends gradually along the Pundaloya to Palawatte Road, a quiet village road that curves around a mountain, offering views of the Kotmale River Gorge and the Dimbula Hills. The route continues past a small school, entering the Meddecombra Estate before returning to tea trails leading towards the factory.
The final stretch involves a climb to Watagoda, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the Pundaloya Valley and the estate atop the “Great Wall.” The trail concludes in Watagoda Town, a lively village marked by the Watagoda Train Station.
Important Considerations
- Road Traffic: A significant portion of the trail is on paved roads, though traffic is generally light.
- Dogs: Some reviewers have mentioned encountering aggressive dogs along the route, so carrying a stick is advisable.
- Supplies: It’s recommended to bring your own food and drinks, as there are limited options for purchasing refreshments along the way, except for small convenience stores.
- Navigation: While the trail is generally well-maintained and marked, using the Pekoe Trail app in conjunction with other maps is recommended for navigation.
- Weather: Expect clear weather with moderate mosquito activity. Bring bug spray.
Reviews and Recommendations
Recent hikers have praised the beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, and opportunities for interaction with locals. Some have noted the uphill sections and road traffic as challenges. Hikers recommend staying hydrated and starting early. Accommodation options like Pekoe Villas and Kithul Cottage in Watagoda are highly recommended for their clean rooms, good showers, and welcoming hosts.
Supporting Local Communities
The Pekoe Trail is designed to promote development and support livelihoods in rural Sri Lanka. By purchasing goods and services from local businesses along the trail, hikers can contribute to the prosperity of these communities. The trail is funded by the European Union (EU) with additional support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by IESC on behalf of Sri Lanka Tourism. For more information, visit thepekoetrailsrilanka.com.
Responsible Travel: The Pekoe Trail encourages responsible interaction with the environment to avoid depletion or degradation of natural resources and allow for long-term environmental quality.
